Manipulation

From Masq
Category: Attributes
Reference: Vampire: the Masquerade (Revised edition/WW2300), page 117-118.


Manipulation measures a character's ability for self-expression in the interests of getting others to share her outlook or follow her whims. In short, it's getting others to do what she wants. Manipulation comes into play when a character tries to influence or subtly guide another's behaviour. Manipulation is used to trick, bluff, fast-talk, and railroad other characters. Whether or not the characters in question actually like the manipulator is irrelevant (this is why Manipulation differs from Charisma); a skilled motivator can even employ the talents of people who hate her.


• Poor: A person of few (often ineffectual) words
•• Average: You can fool some of the people some of the time, just like anyone else.
••• Good: You never pay full price.
•••• Exceptional: You could be a politician or cult leader.
••••• Outstanding: "Of course I'll tell the prince it was I who tried to stake him."


Example Specialties: Persuasive, "Damn I'm Smooth", Seductive, Well-Reasoned